SD20A/0149

The proposal is recommended for grant as it supports the intensive use of a permitted sports facility, aligns with the 'RU' zoning objective and Objective SSP14 of the Local Area Plan, and is deemed acceptable regarding its impact on residential amenity, the visual landscape, and local biodiversity.

• The principle of development is acceptable as the floodlights will facilitate the intensive use of a permitted sports pitch, which is consistent with national and local policies to provide recreational infrastructure in accessible suburban areas.
• The visual impact of the 21.3-metre columns and associated light spill is considered negligible due to the slender design of the poles, their 30-metre distance from the nearest dwellings, and technical data confirming that illumination can be precisely directed downwards.
• Potential adverse impacts regarding noise, traffic, and bat species can be mitigated through planning conditions, including a 9:00 pm curfew for lights, the implementation of a Mobility Management Plan, and supplementary bat surveys during active periods.